Scope

Objective

An Objective is the metric that you would like to assess as part of your study. Determine which Objectives are enabled for your simulation, and the order in which they are presented.

Mould Growth Index

Mould Growth Index refers to the potential for mould to develop in certain conditions within a building. Mould Growth Index is generally influenced by factors such as temperature, relative humidity, and the presence of organic material for mould to feed upon. The presence of mould can degrade materials and negatively impact indoor air quality, posing potential health risks.

Water Content

Water Content refers to the amount of water present in a wall system. In the context of hygrothermal modelling, this could be the water in the air (humidity), or the water absorbed or adsorbed by the building materials. Understanding the water content in materials is essential because it influences the thermal properties of materials, can lead to the degradation of materials, and plays a significant role in the development of conditions favourable for biological growths like mould. Kg/m2, kg/m3 and M% can all be assessed.

Relative Humidity

Relative Humidity in the context of hygrothermal simulations refers to the amount of moisture in a material compared to the maximum amount of moisture the air could hold at that temperature, expressed as a percentage. When relative humidity reaches > 80%, the potential for condensation and mould growth begins within building structures.

Dew Point

The dew point is the temperature at which air becomes saturated with water vapour and dew can form. In hygrothermal modelling, understanding the dew point is crucial, as it can help predict where condensation might occur within a building structure. When the temperature of a surface drops below the dew point of the surrounding air, water vapour from the air condenses onto that surface, which can lead to problems like dampness, mould growth, and material degradation.

Temperature

A metric assessing the temperature that affects condensation by altering air's moisture-holding capacity.

Run Period

Determine the period in which the Objective will be simulated. 1 - 3 years can be chosen for a well-designed wall system or in the early design stages. For all other systems, 10 years should be chosen.

Start Month

Select the Start Month as wither Winter (May 1st) or as a Custom Start Month.